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Sometimes network devices such as wireless access points, routers, and storage devices need to be rebooted periodically. For whatever reason, they run fine for a few months then require a reboot to get them working again. For some reason, the reboot is always needed when you are in a hurry to get something done and have to take a couple minutes to run up or downstairs or to the other end of the house and unplug/replug your device. For less than $5, you can solve your problem and forget the hassle.

As a note for those that don’t know this, don’t use this method with your computer. It’s not nice for a computer, but works fine with firmware-based devices. (devices where all the software is stored on a chip)

Go to your local hardware store and buy a cheap lamp timer. They look like this

and can be scheduled to turn power on and off at set intervals. Set the timer to power off at something like 3am and back on at 3:15am.
Plug your wireless router or access point into it and plug it into the wall. No more worries about rebooting your equipment!

An additional use for this is to schedule your wireless access to be turned off overnite while you aren’t using it. This will reduce the risk of wireless snooping and of others trying to use your (hopefully) secured wireless internet access.